The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has expressed grave concern over the escalating number of road accidents plaguing the nation, particularly in the wake of a recent devastating collision at Boy’s Town Junction along the Robertsfield Highway, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. CENTAL Head, Anderson Miamen, stressed the urgency of government intervention to curb this alarming trend and prevent further loss of life and property. While acknowledging the lack of readily available statistics, Miamen emphasized the palpable increase in road accidents, underscoring the need for swift and decisive action.
Miamen attributed the escalating crisis to the government’s failure to implement and enforce adequate road safety measures. He criticized the Liberia National Police (LNP) for prioritizing bribery over ensuring vehicle roadworthiness and adherence to traffic regulations. This negligence, according to Miamen, allows drivers operating defective vehicles and engaging in reckless driving to go unchecked, contributing significantly to the rising accident rate. He called for increased funding for the LNP to enhance highway patrols, not for harassment, but for stringent enforcement of traffic laws.
Furthermore, Miamen highlighted the crucial need for a multifaceted approach involving both governmental action and public awareness campaigns. He urged the Executive and Legislative branches of government to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address this escalating national emergency. He also stressed the importance of educating citizens about road safety, encouraging them to hold drivers accountable for reckless behavior and to report violations. Passengers, he noted, should not passively condone speeding or other dangerous driving practices but actively advocate for their own safety.
Addressing the specific incident at Boy’s Town Junction, Miamen demanded that the perpetrator be brought to justice under Liberian law. He argued that holding individuals accountable for their actions is a crucial deterrent against future reckless driving and a vital step towards creating a safer road environment. This incident, he reiterated, underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of Liberia’s road safety framework.
The recurring theme in Miamen’s pronouncements was the shared responsibility in tackling this national crisis. He appealed for a collective effort involving the government, law enforcement, drivers, and passengers to prioritize road safety and prevent further tragedies. This collaborative approach, he emphasized, is essential for creating a culture of responsible road usage and safeguarding lives.
CENTAL’s call to action underscores the dire situation on Liberia’s roads and the urgent need for decisive intervention. The government’s response to this crisis will be a critical test of its commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring their safety. The hope is that this tragic incident will serve as a catalyst for meaningful change and a concerted effort to make Liberia’s roads safer for all. The continued loss of life and property demands immediate and effective action from all stakeholders to prevent future tragedies and create a safer transportation environment.
